Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Lakers Land Winger from Clinton Township

The Amarillo Bulls of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) announced today that forward Matt Johnson has committed to Lake Superior State University

In 36 games with the Bulls, Johnson has netted 12 goals and added 18 assists for 30 points. He is plus 12 and has one powerplay goal, two game winning markers and 104 shots on goal.

“I couldn’t be more excited,” said Johnson “I grew up watching them and following them, and can’t believe I am going there.”

Johnson was one of the big keys to the Bulls success in their Inaugural Season where they won the South Division and advanced to the Robertson Cup National Championship Tournament. In 58 games with the Bulls, he had 21 goals and 29 assists for 49 points. He had six power play goals, one shorthanded marker and potted in two game winners. Johnson said the opportunity to play near his home of Clinton, Twp Michigan made the decision an easy one.

“I really wanted to play in Michigan,” he explained. “I know a friend of mine had graduated from there, and is playing in the American Hockey League. Their program in general is excellent and their school is all about hockey.”

Bulls Head Coach Dennis Williams said he is thrilled for the hard working forward.“You can see with the appointment this year of his character and what we think of him as a leader, being named co-captain this year with Joe Kozlak and Karl Beckman,” he said. “Matt is just an all-around great hockey player. He is an excellent kid who competes very hard, goes about his day very business-like and leads by example.”

Williams said that he got to know Matt in the first season and appreciated what he brought to the team. “His leadership qualities, offensive capabilities and his demeanor in the locker room as well as on the bench are big, especially when we need him to have a calming presence on the bench,” he added. “He is a competitor who drives hard to the net, and I think he will be an excellent Division I hockey player.”